Church seeks downtown location

Members of the Three Rivers Planning Commission are expected to handle a matter this evening regarding a special-use permit to allow a church to locate in a downtown storefront.

The proposal, being sought by Verse By Verse church, is the main focus of the 6:45 p.m. meeting.

At issue is whether downtown is a suitable location for a church. The matter has been vehemently opposed by Mayor Tom Lowry, local business leader Bruce Monroe and his family, and several members of the Three Rivers Downtown Development Authority. Opponents say parking-related issues, a precedent being set for additional churches seeking a downtown locations and whether the proposal meets criteria established by the planning commission.

Other opponents have said downtown should be reserved for commerce-related businesses that financially benefit the community.

The building in which Verse By Verse is seeking to locate is at 54 North Main Street and is owned by Tom Meyer, of Meyer Ventures.